Saints Exercise 5th-Year Option On Cameron Jordan

April 22, 2014 by Stefan St. Romain

In a move discussed last week, the New Orleans Saints have exercised the 5th year option on Defensive End Cameron Jordan. The move will ensure that Jordan, one of two 2011 first-round draft picks by the Saints, will return to the team next season at a more-than reasonable rate in the region of $7 million.

The move was an absolute no-brainer by New Orleans, as Jordan has prospered into one of the team's best young players and a centerpiece of Rob Ryan's defense. Jordan posted 12.5 sacks in 2013, reaching the Pro Bowl in just his third year out of California. Just 24, Jordan's ceiling is still sky-high, and the Saints will work on a long-term extension for him when the time comes. Saints DE Cameron Jordan

The franchise's other 2011 first-rounder, Running Back Mark Ingram, is unlikely to be extended at the rate his 5th year option would dictate. Ingram would stand to earn over $4 million if the team chose to go that route, but he will likely be able to be retained at a more reasonable rate. The team still remains high on Ingram, especially after his strong finish in 2013, but extending him at a cheaper rate is just as much of a no-brainer as exercising the option on Jordan. The team has until May 3 to pick up their option on Ingram.

Meanwhile, Cameron Jordan will be back next season at a valuable price, which is good business for the Saints. Jordan will get the bigger, long-term deal that he is trending towards in due time, but this seemingly team-friendly option will assist the Saints in the near future as they will likely encounter more cap dilligence in 2015. The 6-4 287 lb. rusher has accumulated 21.5 sacks and 5 forced fumbles in his brief career, while also pouncing on 5 more fumbles. The team hopes to receive another shot of pass rush excellence from its young sack artist, as Jordan looks to build off his strong 2013 campaign.